Girl Forgotten by April Henry

I love books where a teen (usually a girl) tries to solve a murder. There are trends (subgenres of you will) in the many books of this type. One is the teen investigates an unsolved murder from several years ago. A subgenre of that is a podcast giving the teen the forum to announce their intentions and results of their investigations to anyone who cares to listen. And usually people are upset about it. 

Piper is new to her small town. On one of her first days there, she comes across the grave of Layla Trello who died at 17 (the same age as Piper). Layla's murder has never been solved, so for her senior project Piper decides to create a podcast chronicling her investigation of the case. If she can find the killer, all the better. 

Piper knows nothing about podcasting (other than being an avid true crime listener). Her teacher pairs her with Jonas who has his own sports themed podcast. Jonas does not like the subject of murder and is reluctant to help. He also has secrets that intrigue Piper. 

As is often the case with these stories, some people are not happy that painful memories are being brought up or that accusations are being made. Even the school administration is not so sure Piper should continue with her podcast. She feels so close to finding the answer that she does not want to give up even if she is in danger. 

I don't know why I find these stories so fascinating, but I do. This one is good and everything you want it to be with this type of story. 

For more info, check out the Indianapolis Public Library catalog and the author's site.